2016 Mazda 3 2.0L Petrol · LO65 AAN

The vehicle shows a stable but consumable-heavy maintenance pattern, with the most recent test on 12 January 2026 at 112,731 miles passing despite an advisory for thin offside rear brake pads. While the car has avoided major structural failures in recent years, the MOT history reveals a recurring trend of neglected brake components. The tester has consistently flagged worn brake pads or discs across multiple years, specifically in 2019, 2021, 2024, and 2025, suggesting the previous owners tend to address braking issues only when they reach a failure threshold rather than performing proactive maintenance. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a typical ten-year usage pattern, averaging approximately 11,273 miles per year. The record shows steady annual progression, moving from 59,099 miles in January 2020 to 112,731 miles in January 2026. This steady usage indicates the vehicle has not been subject to long periods of inactivity, which helps mitigate certain types of age-related deterioration, though it does mean mechanical components like suspension and drivetrain elements have undergone regular, predictable wear. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system and rear suspension. The 2021 failure at 66,719 miles was significant, involving a fractured offside rear coil spring and a seriously weakened rear inner brake disc. Although these specific items were resolved, the recurrence of brake pad advisories in 2024 and 2026 suggests the braking hardware requires close monitoring. I recommend checking the condition of all brake discs for pitting or uneven wear and inspecting the rear suspension bushes and coil springs for any signs of fatigue or corrosion. The history also notes frequent mentions of undertrays obstructing the tester's view, particularly in 2019, 2020, and 2022. While this is a common administrative note, it means certain underside components may not have been clearly visible during those inspections. A physical inspection of the chassis and underside is necessary to rule out any hidden corrosion or fluid leaks that the undertrays might have concealed from the MOT tester.